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He cashed in, but can he find happiness?
A friend of mine grabbed the brass ring the other day. He realized a dream that has captivated many in the home furnishings industry: He cashed in by selling his company.
He sounded relaxed on the phone when he told me about ending that chapter of his life, one marked by far too many trips and far too many weeks without a day off, always tethered to a cell phone. He had, he confessed, just come from three hours at his health club, a weekday investment of time that would have been unheard of when he was putting in his sweat equity.
But now, almost miraculously, he had the gift of time. Oh, and a nice paycheck, too. It would have been rude to ask him just how sweet the payoff was, but it will be enough to finance months of travel to the sunny places of the world. He was particularly looking forward to sailing in the Aegean, he said. As I looked out my office window at the trees shivering in a winter breeze, I suddenly hated my friend.
He had earned his good fortune. I had watched him in action for several years. He was completely committed to his company. It was his passion.
Now, he was telling me, he hoped to spend more time with his family. Sadly, his marriage had not fared as well as his business. He did not know if it could be saved.
This was the First Day of the Rest of His Life. He would be taking at least three months off. At long last he had time to smell the roses, a prospect that scared him a bit, I think. He doesn’t know how to slow down.
We end this little reflection with the pleasant thoughts of a yacht meandering through the Greek Isles, and of the man admiring those magical vistas. But questions linger on the fragrant sea breezes that will accompany him: Will my friend enjoy his new journey? How long will it take him to be pulled back into the swirling ambition of the restless businessman?
I wish my friend well. I really don’t hate him. I do hope he can find meaning in the sweet smell of the roses.
Undetermined commented:
Larry: Thanks for sharing that story with me. Yes, the urge to get back in the race can be a strong one. I bet my friend will feel that urge soon. Good luck as you seek the right path for you.-Dave
Undetermined commented:
I can some what relate,for after 15 years as an upholstery shop owener .I finally got fed up with the inability to get qualified help and being chief cook and bottle washer.trying to sell a business is not easy so I decideded to close my doors.The day that I closed up that night was the most restful night sleep I had had in a long time and now some twenty months later I am getting that urge to get back in the race . silly me
Undetermined commented:
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